It seems like an odd place for a story to start. The curtain has fallen. There is nothing more to be said, or is there? Hope is often born from the ending of other stories. A seed must die to grow a tree. A caterpillar must pull it's very essence apart to become a butterfly. The world is a cycle, and one piece must end for the next piece to start. This start always begins with Hope.

This is how the story begins. For it to be born, something must die. Our desire for vengeance, and retribution must put down for us to accept this new story. This story is the story of peace, joy, and love. There is little room for vendettas when Christ is involved.

What is your hope this Advent season?

Dear Holy Creator,In this new beginning, help us let go of what hinders our hope.Amen.

The Advent Calendar doesn't technically begin until December 1. As part of this year, on Sunday I will share our previous meditations on Hope, Peace, Love and Joy. Some of them are years old and cringe worthy. I feel like I'm sharing my baby pictures to the world, even though I willingly shared this when it was first published.